Faith-Environment Unite as Pak-EPA Promotes Green Awareness

News Desk

Islamabad: Religious scholars, environmental experts and students came together in the capital to promote the message of environmental responsibility through Islamic teachings at a Qiraat competition focused on the Quran’s guidance on protecting nature.

Organized by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) in collaboration with IMARAT, the event aimed to create awareness about the connection between faith and environmental conservation while encouraging young people to play an active role in protecting natural resources.

Addressing the participants, Pak-EPA Director General highlighted that safeguarding the environment is not only a scientific and policy challenge but also a moral responsibility. She said individuals have a duty to protect natural resources as part of their social and religious obligations.

Dr Zaigham Abbas, Director Lab/NEQS at Pak-EPA, said the Quran presents nature as a trust (amanah) given to humanity, requiring people to preserve and protect it. He added that such initiatives also help promote dialogue and harmony among followers of different faiths by highlighting shared values of environmental care.

The event featured discussions on environmental teachings in Islam and other religions. Professor Hafiz Muhammad Naseer from the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) spoke about environmental preservation from a Quranic perspective, while Dr Maqsood, Adviser to Pak Mission Society, shared insights into Christian teachings on environmental stewardship.

Junaid, Manager at IMARAT, emphasized the importance of integrating environmental awareness into educational institutions. He said conservation efforts should be viewed not only as a civic responsibility but also as an act of worship and spiritual commitment.

The event concluded with a tree plantation activity, where Pak-EPA officials and participants pledged to support environmental protection initiatives.

More than 30 students from various universities and colleges participated in the Qiraat competition. The winners received cash prizes, while all participants were awarded certificates and shields in recognition of their contribution to the awareness campaign.